1. Identify

Understand how human choices shape the welfare of companion animals, often in ways we don’t immediately see.

Selective breeding and commercial breeding

Companion animals may experience:

• Breeding for physical traits that lead to health problems

• Genetic conditions linked to selective breeding practices

• Intensive breeding environments focused on profit rather than welfare

• Separation from mothers and littermates at an early age

• Lifelong health challenges caused by inherited conditions

Purchasing and adoption

The demand for companion animals can contribute to:

• Commercial breeding operations with poor welfare standards

• Overbreeding and surplus animals entering shelters

• Impulse purchases that lead to abandonment or neglect

• Increased numbers of unwanted animals

• Pressure on rescue and rehoming organisations

• Animals being surrendered when circumstances change

Daily care and wellbeing

Companion animals may experience:

• Insufficient physical exercise or mental stimulation

• Loneliness resulting from prolonged isolation

• Inadequate veterinary care or preventative treatment

• Environments that do not meet species-specific needs

• Limited opportunities to express natural behaviours

Abandonment and neglect

Some companion animals may face:

• Loss of care due to changes in owner circumstances

• Neglect of physical, emotional, or behavioural needs

• Abandonment when ownership becomes challenging

• Increased risk of illness, injury, or suffering

• Uncertainty associated with rehoming or life in shelters

Exotic and non-traditional pets

Animals kept outside their natural environments may experience:

• Housing conditions that do not meet their complex needs

• Stress associated with captivity and handling

• Limited opportunities to express natural behaviours

• Health issues arising from inappropriate care

• Challenges associated with the exotic pet trade

2. Reflect

Consider what this means in relation to your own choices.

• How do I view my responsibilities towards animals kept for companionship?

• Have I considered the lifelong commitment involved in caring for an animal?

• How important is it that companion animals are able to express natural behaviours?

• What factors influence my views on breeding, purchasing, and adoption?

• Do I understand the welfare needs of the animals people commonly keep as pets?

• How might my choices influence the demand for certain breeds or species?

• Do my actions align with my values around compassion, responsibility, and reducing harm?

3. Decide

Consider what steps feel realistic and meaningful for you.

Possible actions:

• Learn more about the welfare needs of different companion animals

• Consider adoption or rescue when acquiring a pet

• Research breeders carefully and prioritise welfare standards

• Support responsible breeding practices that prioritise health and wellbeing

• Ensure companion animals receive appropriate exercise, enrichment, and veterinary care

• Avoid purchasing animals on impulse

• Learn about the welfare challenges associated with exotic pet ownership

• Encourage responsible and compassionate animal care within your community

Companion animals depend largely on human decisions for their wellbeing. Greater awareness can help ensure that the relationships we form with animals are based on care, respect, and a commitment to meeting their needs throughout their lives.